A CHARITY that works with older people is encouraging people in South Gloucestershire to check that their home insurance is up to date.

Martin Green of Age UK South Gloucestershire said: “Many of us will be pleased to see the end of the chilly winter months and looking ahead to spring.

"This time of year brings a good opportunity to brush away the winter cobwebs and spring clean, and this year we’re encouraging people to extend that spring clean to their finances – in particular reviewing their home and contents insurance.”

The following tips are recommended for people to consider when re-evaluating their home insurance:

1. Ensure your home contents insurance is tailored to your current needs and circumstances.

It’s worth taking a moment to consider if there may be any changes to your policy that your insurer is not aware of – for example, have you purchased any new high value items that aren’t currently declared in your home insurance policy?

A simple call to your home insurance provider to check that the previously agreed levels of cover are still adequate could help put your mind at ease.

2. Check the small print of your building and contents cover carefully.

It’s important to make sure you’re aware of any exceptions that could stop you from being eligible for a particular claim.

For example, many insurers require regular maintenance of the exterior and interior of the insured property to be undertaken in order for buildings claims to be met.

 If there are any Terms and Conditions on the policy that you are not sure about, it’s worth asking your provider for clarification.

3. If you feel like you are paying over the odds or there are additions to your policy that you no longer need, consider having with a chat with your home insurance provider.

If they are unable to offer you a deal you are happy with, you might want to consider shopping around for a new policy with an alternative provider.

For further information about Age UK Home Insurance, call 01454 411707 or pop into Age UK South Gloucestershire, 67 High Street, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 2AW.

Age UK provide their own home insurance policies which are designed to meet the needs of those in later life and comes with features and benefits aimed specifically at older people.